UConn fires coach Bob Diaco after three seasons

The Connecticut Huskies fired football coach Bob Diaco on Monday after a 11-26 record in his three seasons.

UConn athletic director David Benedict announced the decision, which is effective Jan. 2.

The Huskies were 3-9 this season and finished
in a three-way tie for last place in the American Athletic Conference
East division.

"I believe a new leader for our program and
student-athletes is needed to build long-term success," Benedict said in
a statement. "I am grateful to Coach Diaco and his staff for their hard
work and the integrity with which they ran the program and certainly
wish them future success.

"I know this may come as a surprise to our
fans and supporters given the timing of this decision. However, it
became apparent to me that a change in program direction is necessary at
this time."

In May, Diaco agreed to a two-year contract
extension through the 2020 season. He earned $1.7 million this season
and was set to earn $1.8 million in 2017.

"This is obviously not the way I had hoped
things would turn out, but I appreciate having had the opportunity to be
here at UConn," Diaco said in a statement released by the school. "I
thank the administration, staff and fans of the UConn football program
for their passion and support over these three years. Most importantly, I
want to say how much I love the players on this team and will be
rooting for their success. I know that there are great things to come
for all of them."

Diaco, 43, took over at UConn prior to the 2014 season after spending the previous four years as the defensive coordinator at Notre Dame.

Penn State offensive coordinator Joe Moorhead
is expected to be a candidate for UConn's vacancy, according to
ESPN.com. Moorhead will coach for Penn State against USC in the Rose Bowl on Jan. 2.